The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported a sharp increase in chikungunya cases among travellers returning to the UK in the first half of 2025.
Between January and June 2025, there were 73 confirmed cases in England – compared to just 27 during the same period last year. This is the highest number ever recorded for this time of year. Most infections were linked to travel in Sri Lanka, India, and Mauritius, where local outbreaks are ongoing.
What is Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne virus that causes:
- Sudden fever
- Severe joint and muscle pain
- Headaches
- Skin rashes
- Sensitivity to light
While most people recover within 1–2 weeks, joint pain can linger for months or even years. In rare cases – particularly among young children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions – it can be life-threatening.
How is it Spread?
Only two species of mosquito can transmit chikungunya. They are not established in the UK, meaning there is no risk of onward transmission here. The risk is highest in tropical and subtropical countries where these mosquitoes thrive.
Prevention and Protection
The most important step is avoiding mosquito bites when travelling:
- Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil
- Wear long sleeves and trousers, especially at dawn and dusk
- Sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets in high-risk areas
Two vaccines are now available in the UK via private travel clinics (following assessment by a healthcare professional):
- IXCHIQ® – for ages 18–59
- Vimkunya® – for ages 12+
If you’re heading to a chikungunya-affected region, check the latest Travel Health Pro advice and consider whether vaccination is right for you.
Other Travel-Linked Health Alerts
The UKHSA report also highlighted:
- Oropouche virus – First ever UK cases detected, all linked to travel in Brazil. Spread by midge bites, not mosquitoes. Causes fever, chills, headaches, joint pain, and muscle aches. Pregnant travellers should take extra care due to emerging concerns.
- Cholera – 8 UK cases so far this year, mostly linked to travel to India and Ethiopia (Ethiopia cases linked to an ongoing outbreak).
- Dengue fever – 161 cases reported, a 67% drop from last year’s numbers.
- Zika virus – 4 cases in 2025 so far, down from 9 in 2024.
- Meningococcal disease (MenW) – Cases linked to pilgrimage travel to Saudi Arabia. Travellers should be vaccinated with the MenACWY vaccine before departure.
Key Takeaways for Travellers
If you’re planning a trip abroad:
- Check travel health advice 4–6 weeks before you go
- Consider vaccination for high-risk destinations
- Take mosquito and midge bite prevention seriously
- Seek medical advice promptly if you develop fever, joint pain, or other symptoms after returning
For the most up-to-date destination health guidance, visit Travel Health Pro before you travel.
